RANGITIKEI ELCTORATE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 90, Issue 91, 20 April 1946, Page 6

RANGITIKEI ELCTORATE

NO COMPLAINTS ABOUT BOUNDARY CHANGES LOSSES MADE GOOD BY GAINS (0.C.) Marton, April 16. “Rangitikei has no complaints with the new electoral boundaries, as recently announced by tne Commission,’’ said Mr. J. A. Caithness, chairman, speaking at the annual meeting of the Rangitikei Electorate Branch of the New Zealand National Party at Marton this afternoon. While Rangitikei had lost Durie Hill, No. 1, No. 2, and part of No. 3 Lines, and certain northern territories, it had gainned part of the Manawatu electorate, he said. “The change of boundaries came as a complete shock to us and we were put out. of office overnight,” said Mr. D. H. Mclnnes, president of the National Party in the Manawatu electorate, when invited, later in the meeting, to comment on the changes. “As far as Manawatu is concerned, there is no question of an appeal; the Commission could not have done a better job under the circumstances,” he added. Mr. Mclnnes explained that Rangitikei had gained the Fcilding, Halcombe and Sanson branches—all very excellent, branches—and part, of Rongotea, which was approximately cut in half, and the southern portion n f the Colyton branch. He felt certain that Rangitikei would return a National Party candidate at the next election. He appealed to the electorate to look after the junior branches in the areas Rangitikei was taking over. “Their enthusiasm is contagious,” he added. “I can assure you that those joining Rangitikei will do their utmost to work for the return of a National Party candidate in Rangitikei," said Mr. Mclnnes in conclusion. Reference to altered boundaries in his electorate was made b\ Mr. E. B Gordon. M.P., when he addressed the meeting later. He was sorry to )osi‘ naris of his electorate, but felt that lhev were National Party gains to the Wanganui and Waimarino electoral?', and with good organising it should be nossilfle for the National Party Io win Ihe latter seat at the next election. Basing his observations on the last election. Mr. Gordon quoted figures to show that while Rangitikei had lost 220 votes to the Wanganui and Waimarino electorates, they were getting 209 votes from the Manawatu.